High-pressure bi-directional sealing system

ABSTRACT

A high-pressure bi-directional sealing system having outer support rings ( 30, 32 ), annular, axial seals ( 100, 300 ) between the outer support rings ( 30, 32 ), inner support rings ( 150, 160 ) located between the annular, axial seals ( 100, 300 ) and a redundant seal ( 200 ) that is located between the inner support rings ( 150, 160 ). The outer support rings ( 30, 32 ), the seals ( 100, 300 ), the inner support rings ( 150, 160 ) and the redundant seal ( 200 ) are located within a space between an outer tube ( 12 ) and an inner tube ( 14 ) that is telescopically disposed within the outer tube ( 12 ). The seals ( 100, 300 ) are oriented in opposite directions. Specifically, the opening of the seal ( 100 ) is facing in a first direction and the opening of the seal ( 300 ) is facing in a second direction that is opposite the first direction. This configuration enables the high-pressure bi-directional sealing system to handle pressure in both directions.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO OTHER PATENT APPLICATIONS

None.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1) Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to sealing systems.

2) Related Art

Various prior art sealing systems are shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,131,960,6,027,125, 5,433,183, 5,232,252, 4,552,385, 4,456,288, 3,837,687,3,779,564, 3,656,784, 3,680,874, 3,447,819, 3,185,504, 2,922,665,2,840,350, 2,839,089, and 2,430,445.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to, in one embodiment, a sealingassembly, comprising an outer tube (12) having an interior region and aninterior surface (18) surrounding the interior region and an inner tube(14) telescopically disposed within the interior region of the outertube (12) such that the outer tube (12) and inner tube (14) can moveaxially with respect to each other and rotate with respect to eachother. The inner tube (14) has a first portion having a first outerdiameter (D1) and a second portion having a second outer diameter (D2)that is less than the first outer diameter (D1). The difference in theouter diameters D1 and D2 forms a circumferentially extending shoulder(27), a circumferentially extending wall (28) that is contiguous withthe shoulder (27) and a circumferentially extending space betweenshoulder (27) and interior surface (18) of the outer tube (12). The wall(28) forms a boundary between the first portion of the inner tube (14)which has the first outer diameter (D1) and the second portion of theinner tube (14) which has the second outer diameter (D2). The inner tube(14) has an exterior surface (26) of which the shoulder (27) is aportion.

The sealing system (10) further comprises a first outer support ring(30) positioned on the shoulder (27) and abutting the wall (28). Thefirst outer support ring (30) has a seal support section (33) that isshaped so as to form a first space (34) between the seal support section(33) and the interior surface (18) of the outer tube (12) and a secondspace (35) between the seal support section (33) and exterior surface(26) of the inner tube (14). The sealing system (10) further comprises afirst annular seal (100) interference fitted between interior surface(18) of outer tube (12) and shoulder (27). The first annular seal (100)has a first portion (132) upon which dynamic forces are exerted andwhich contacts the interior surface (18) of the outer tube (12) and asecond portion (134) upon which no dynamic forces are exerted. Thesecond portion (134) bears against the shoulder (27). The first portion(132) of the first annular seal (100) is positioned in the first space(34) between the seal support section (33) and interior surface (18) ofthe outer tube (12) and the second portion (134) of the first annularseal (100) is positioned in the second space (35) between the sealsupport section (33) and the shoulder (27). The first annular seal (100)comprises an arcuate portion (107) which has a curved inner surface(107A). The seal support section (33) abuts the curved inner surface(107A).

The sealing system (10) further comprises a first circumferentiallyextending inner support ring (150) positioned between the shoulder (27)and the interior surface (18). The inner support ring (150) has a firstsidewall (152) and an opposite second sidewall (154). The first sidewall(152) has a curvature that extends for the entire circumference of theinner support ring (150) and is sized and shaped for receiving thearcuate portion (107) of the seal (100). The sealing system (10) furthercomprises a circumferentially extending center shock absorbing seal(200) that is interference fitted between the interior surface (18) andshoulder (27) and comprises a first shock absorbing seal sidewall (202)that abuts the opposite second sidewall (154) of inner support ring(150) and an opposite second shock absorbing seal sidewall (204). Thesealing system (10) further comprises a second circumferentiallyextending inner support ring (160) positioned between the shoulder (27)and the interior surface (18). The inner support ring (160) has a firstexterior wall (162) and an opposite second exterior wall (164). Thefirst exterior wall (162) has a curvature that extends for the entirecircumference of the second circumferentially extending inner supportring (160) and the opposite second exterior wall (164) abuts theopposite second shock absorbing seal sidewall (204) of center shockabsorbing seal (200).

The sealing system (10) further comprises a second annular seal (300)interference fitted between interior surface (18) of outer tube (12) andshoulder (27). The second annular seal (300) has a first portion (310)upon which dynamic forces are exerted and which contacts the interiorsurface (18) of the outer tube (12) and a second portion (306) uponwhich no dynamic forces are exerted. The second portion (306) bearsagainst the shoulder (27). The second annular seal (300) furthercomprises an arcuate portion (307) that is positioned within thecurvature of the first exterior wall (162) of the secondcircumferentially extending inner support ring (160). The arcuateportion (307) comprises a curved inner surface (308).

The sealing system (10) further comprises a second outer support ring(32) positioned on the shoulder (27). The second outer support ring (32)comprises a seal support section (62) that abuts the curved innersurface (308) of second annular seal (300). The seal support section(62) has a structure which forms a first space (140) between the sealsupport section (62) and the interior surface (18) of the outer tube(12) and a second space (142) between the seal support section (62) andthe shoulder (27). The first portion (304) of the second annular seal(300) is positioned in the first space (140) and the second portion(306) of the second annular seal (300) is positioned in the second space(142) between the seal support section (62) and the shoulder (27). Thesealing system (10) further comprises a retaining member (250) mountedto the inner tube (14) such that the first outer support ring (30), thefirst annular seal (100), the first circumferentially extending innersupport ring (150), the center shock absorbing seal (200), the secondcircumferentially extending inner support ring (160), the second annularseal (300) and the second outer support ring (32) are positioned betweenthe circumferentially extending wall (28) and the retaining member(250). The retaining member (250) abuts the second outer support ring(32).

Other embodiments of the sealing system of the present invention arealso described herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing features of the present invention will become more readilyapparent and may be understood by referring to the following detaileddescription of an illustrative embodiment of the present invention,taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional view of the high-pressure bi-directionalsealing system in accordance with one embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 1B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the high-pressurebi-directional sealing system;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of the view shown in FIG. 1A;

FIG. 3A is a plan view of a seal utilized in the high-pressurebi-directional sealing system;

FIG. 3B is a side view, in longitudinal section, taken along line 3B-3Bof FIG. 3A;

FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional view taken along line 3C-3C of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4 is an exploded view showing components of the high-pressurebi-directional sealing system;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a high-pressure bi-directionalsealing system in accordance with another embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion of the view shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is an exploded view showing components of the high-pressurebi-directional sealing system of FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a high-pressure bi-directionalsealing system in accordance with further embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a portion of the view shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is an exploded view showing components of the high-pressurebi-directional sealing system of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a high-pressure bi-directionalsealing system in accordance with another embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of a portion of the view shown in FIG. 11;and

FIG. 13 is an exploded view showing components of the high-pressurebi-directional sealing system of FIG. 11.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The high-pressure bi-directional sealing system of the present inventionis configured to have any type of matter flow therethrough. As usedherein, the terms “matter” or “flowing matter” include, but are notlimited to, high pressure fluids, medium pressure fluids, low pressurefluids, non-pressurized fluids, water, hydraulic fluid, petroleum,fuels, chemicals, non-fluid type matter such as fertilizers, raw foodconstituents (e.g. wheat, barley, flour, corn, etc.) etc. Thehigh-pressure bi-directional sealing system of the present invention canalso operate under vacuum pressure.

As used herein, the term “dynamic portion” refers to a portion of a sealthat undergoes dynamic forces as that portion of the seal (1) contacts amoving surface or (2) moves or slides upon a stationary surface.

As used herein, the term “static portion” refers to a portion of a sealthat (1) does not undergo any dynamic forces, (2) does not contact anymoving surfaces, and (3) does not move or slide upon a stationarysurface.

Referring to FIGS. 1A, 1B and 2, there is shown a high-pressurebi-directional sealing system 10 in accordance with one embodiment ofthe present invention. Sealing system 10 generally comprises an outer orfemale tube 12 and an inner or male tube 14. Outer tube 12 and innertube 14 are both cylindrical in shape and have circular cross-sections.The inner tube 14 is telescopically disposed within outer tube 12. Innertube 14 and outer tube 12 can move axially with respect to each other.This feature allows the overall length of the sealing system 10 to beincreased or decreased which would be beneficial in situations where thesealing system 10 is retrofitted to existing tube networks. The outertube 12 and inner tube 14 can rotate with respect to each other if anangular force is applied to either outer tube 12 or inner tube 14. Theouter tube 12 and inner tube 14 are configured to function as a conduitfor flowing matter. The outer tube 12 has an interior region in whichinner tube 14 is disposed. Outer tube 12 has an interior surface 18 thatsurrounds the interior region of outer tube 12. The inner tube 14 has aninterior region 20 that is surrounded by interior surface 24. The innertube 14 includes exterior surface 26 that confronts the interior surface18 of outer tube 12. Inner tube 14 is configured to have a portionhaving a first outer diameter D1 and another portion having a secondouter diameter D2 that is less than the first diameter D1. Thedifference in diameters D1 and D2 form a circumferentially extendingshoulder 27 and a circumferentially extending wall 28 that is contiguouswith shoulder 27. Shoulder 27 is a portion of exterior surface 26. Thedifference in diameters D1 and D2 also form a circumferentiallyextending space or spatial region in which the components of the sealingsystem 10 are located. Outer tube 12 and inner tube 14 are fabricatedfrom metal or metal alloys, e.g. steel, stainless steel, iron, copper,brass, nickel, nickel alloys, titanium, etc.

Referring to FIGS. 1B and 2, sealing assembly 10 further comprises apair of identically constructed, circumferentially extending outersupport rings 30 and 32 that are spaced apart and are positioned withinthe space or spatial region created by the difference in diameters D1and D2. Outer support rings 30 and 32 are not fixed to either theinterior surface 18 or shoulder 27, but instead are positioned withinthe space or spatial region created by the difference in diameters D1and D2. Such a positioning or placement of the outer support rings 30and 32 is referred to as “floating placement”. Outer support ring 30abuts wall 28 (see FIG. 2). Outer support ring 30 comprises a sealsupport section 33 that has a structure and shape that forms a space 34between the seal support section 33 and the interior surface 18 of theouter tube 12 and a second space 35 between the seal support section 33and shoulder 27. Seal support section 33 has a first side 38 and asecond side 40 (see FIG. 4). Seal support section 33 has a rounded end41. Seal support section 33 functions as a probe and supports the curvedinner surface 107A of circumferentially extending seal 100. As shown inFIG. 4, the rounded end 41 of seal support section 33 contacts thecurved inner surface 107A of seal 100. Seal support section 33 allowsthe seal 100 to retain its shape and function as intended under extremepressure conditions. Seal 100 is described in detail in the ensuingdescription. Outer support ring 30 includes a circumferentiallyextending support structure 54 that is adjacent to first side 38.Support structure 54 supports the dynamic portion 132 of the seal 100.As shown in FIG. 4, support structure 54 includes a portion 55 that hasa curvature that corresponds to the curvature of end portion 102 of seal100. End portion 102 abuts support structure 54. Since portions of theseal 100 will be unsupported and under pressure during the dynamicmovement, support structure 54 and portion 55 prevent this pressure fromdistorting and damaging the seal 100. In one embodiment, outer supportring 30 further includes circumferentially extending channel 42 andcircumferentially extending piston ring wipers 44 and 45 that aredisposed in the channel 42. Wipers 44 and 45 contact interior surface 18of outer tube 12. As outer tube 12 moves relative to the inner tube 14,or as inner tube 14 moves relative to outer tube 12, wipers 44 and 45scrape interior surface 18. Wipers 44 and 45 function as mechanicalscrapers and wipe away exhaust gas, fluids or other residue andcontaminants thereby preventing contamination of the sealing system anddamage to seal 100. Wipers 44 and 45 create a clean surface for the seal100 to seal against. In one embodiment, each wiper 44 and 45 isconfigured as a Scarf-cut glass-filled PEEK piston ring. However, it isto be understood that other types of mechanical wiping systems can beused in place of wipers 44 and 45, such as wiper seals, O-rings, etc.

Similarly, outer support ring 32 has a seal support section 62 that hasa structure and shape that forms a first space or spatial region 140between the seal support section 62 and the interior surface 18 of theouter tube 12 and a second space or spatial region 142 between the sealsupport section 62 and shoulder 27. Seal support section 62 has a firstside 68 and a second side 70 (see FIG. 4). Seal support section 62functions as a probe and supports the curved inner surface 308 of thecircumferentially extending seal 300. As shown in FIG. 2, seal supportsection 62 has a rounded end 64 which contacts or abuts curved innersurface 308 of seal 300. Seal support section 62 allows the seal 300 toretain its shape and function as intended under extreme pressureconditions. Seal 300 is described in detail in the ensuing description.Outer support ring 32 includes a circumferentially extending supportstructure 74 that is adjacent to first side 68. Support structure 74supports the dynamic portion 304 of the seal 300. Specifically, as shownin FIGS. 2 and 4, support structure 74 has a portion 75 that has acurvature that corresponds to the curvature of end portion 310 of seal300. End portion 310 of seal 300 abuts portion 75. Since portions of theseal 300 will be unsupported and under pressure during the dynamicmovement, support structure 74 and portion 75 prevent this pressure fromdistorting and damaging the seal 300. In one embodiment, outer supportring 32 further comprises circumferentially extending channel 82 andcircumferentially extending piston ring wipers 84 and 85 that aredisposed in the channel 82. Wipers 84 and 85 contact interior surface 18of outer tube 12. As outer tube 12 moves relative to the inner tube 14,or as inner tube 14 moves relative to outer tube 12, wipers 84 and 85scrape interior surface 18 of outer tube 12. Wipers 84 and 85 functionas mechanical scrapers that wipes away exhaust gas, fluids or otherresidue and contaminants thereby preventing contamination of the sealingsystem and damage to seal 300. Wipers 84 and 85 create a clean surfacefor the seal 300 to seal against. In one embodiment, each wiper 84 and85 is configured as a Scarf-cut glass-filled PEEK piston ring. However,it is to be understood that other types of mechanical wiping systems canbe used in place of wipers 84 and 85, such as wiper seals, O-rings, etc.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 3A, 3B, 3C and 4, the sealing system 10 furthercomprises first annular, axial seal 100 and second annular axial seal300 which were briefly described in the foregoing description. Seals 100and 300 circumferentially extend about inner tube 14. Seals 100 and 300are oriented in opposite directions. Specifically, the opening of seal100 is facing in a direction that is opposite to the direction in whichthe opening of seal 300 is facing. This configuration allows sealingsystem 10 to handle pressure in both directions. Each seal 100 and 300is configured as the annular, axial seal shown and described in commonlyowned U.S. Pat. No. 6,983,940, issued Jan. 10, 2006 and entitled“Metallic Seal”, the disclosure of which patent is hereby incorporatedby reference. The aforesaid annular axial seal is also shown anddescribed in commonly owned U.S. Pat. No. 7,201,381, issued Apr. 10,2007, entitled “Metallic Seal”, the disclosure of which patent is herebyincorporated by reference. The aforesaid annular axial seal is alsoshown and described in commonly owned U.S. Pat. No. 7,789,397, issuedSep. 7, 2010, entitled “Metallic Seal”, the disclosure of which patentis hereby incorporated by reference. Seals 100 and 300 are interferencefitted within the space or spatial region created by the differencebetween diameters D1 and D2 of inner tube 14. Seals 100 and 300 areidentical in construction and therefore, only seal 100 is discussed indetail. Seal 100 has a generally “j” shaped or hook-shapedcross-section. Seal 100 comprises first end portion 102 which has distalend 104. Distal end 104 defines edge 105. Seal 100 further comprises agenerally curled second end portion 106 that includes an arcuate orcurved portion 107. Arcuate or curved portion 107 has a curved innersurface 107A. Second end portion 106 extends to distal end 108. Distalend 108 defines edge 110. Seal 100 further comprises central bodyportion 120 that is between and contiguous with first end portion 102and second end portion 106. In a preferred embodiment, central bodyportion 120 has a generally frustro-conical shape. In a preferredembodiment, central body portion 120 does not have any inflection pointsformed therein. Seal 100 has first side 121 and opposite second side122. Second end portion 106 curls in a first direction 125 in accordancewith a predetermined radius of arcuate portion 107 such that distal end108 is located across from first side 121 by a predetermined distance X1and distal ends 104 and 108 do not face each other. The dynamic portionof seal 100 is indicated by reference number 132 and the static portionof seal 100 is indicated by reference number 134. As shown in FIG. 2,the seal 100 is positioned such that the dynamic portion 132 ispositioned within space or spatial region 34 and bears against interiorsurface 18 of outer tube 12. The dynamic portion 132 slides againstexterior surface 18 if inner tube 14 moves relative to outer tube 12 orcontacts interior surface 18 if outer tube 12 moves relative to innertube 14. The static portion 134 is positioned within the space orspatial region 35 between seal support section 33 and shoulder 27 andbears against shoulder 27. There is no relative motion between staticportion 134 and shoulder 27. At all times, seal 100 maintains a sealbetween interior surface 18 and shoulder 27 as a result of the constantcontact between dynamic portion 132 and interior surface 18 and theconstant contact between static portion 134 and shoulder 27. Asdescribed in the forgoing description, seal 100 is interference fittedwithin the space or spatial region created by the difference betweendiameters D1 and D2. Seal 100 is dimensioned so that the forces createdby the interference fit are greater on the static portion 134 than theforces on the dynamic portion 132. As described in the foregoingdescription, seal support section 33 functions as a probe and supportsthe curved inner surface 107A of seal 100 and support structure 54supports the dynamic portion 132 of the seal 100. As shown in FIGS. 1Band 2, distal end 104 of first end section 102 abuts and is supported bysupport structure 54 and portion 55. Since portions of the seal 100 willbe unsupported and under pressure during the dynamic movement, supportstructure 54 prevents this pressure from distorting and damaging theseal 100.

As shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C, seal 100 has outer diameter Z1, innerdiameter Z2, thickness T, radial width W and height H. First end portion102 is angulated or curved in first direction 125 with respect to dashedreference line 128. The thickness T of seal 100 is uniform throughoutthe seal, such that central body portion 120 and end portion 102 havethe same thickness. The size of seal 100 can be varied in order to beused in different sealing applications. For example, in one embodiment,outer diameter Z1 is about 78.18 mm, inner diameter Z2 is about 70.76mm, radial width W is about 3.7 mm and height H is about 5.84 mm. It isto be understood that seal 100 can be configured to have otherdimensions and that the actual dimensions depend upon the particularapplication with which the seal will be used. In a preferred embodiment,seal 100 is fabricated from metal or metal alloys. Examples of suchmetals and metal alloys are nickel, nickel super alloy and nickel cobaltalloys. In a preferred embodiment, seal 100 is solution annealed and agehardened to NACE specifications. In a preferred embodiment, seal 100 hasa dicronite coating to reduce installation and operating friction.

Referring to FIGS. 1B, 2 and 4, seal 300 has an arcuate or curvedportion 307. Arcuate or curved portion 307 has curved inner surface 308.The dynamic portion of seal 300 is indicated by reference number 304,and the static portion of seal 300 is indicated by reference number 306.Seal 300 further includes end portion 310. Dynamic portion 304 ispositioned within the space or spatial region 140 between seal supportsection 62 and bears against interior surface 18 of outer tube 12.Dynamic portion 304 slides against interior surface 18 when inner tube14 moves with respect to outer tube 12. Dynamic portion 304 alsocontacts interior surface 18 when outer tube 12 moves with respect toinner tube 14. Static portion 306 is positioned within the space orspatial region 142 between seal support section 62 and shoulder 27 andbears against shoulder 27. There is no relative motion between staticportion 306 and shoulder 27. At all times, seal 300 maintains a sealbetween interior surface 18 and shoulder 27 as a result of the constantcontact between dynamic portion 304 and interior surface 18 and theconstant contact between static portion 306 and shoulder 27. Sealsupport section 62 functions as a probe and supports the curved innersurface 308 of seal 300. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, seal support section62 has a rounded end 64 that contacts the curved inner surface 308 ofthe seal 300. As described in the foregoing description,circumferentially extending support structure 74 includes a portion 75that has a curvature that corresponds to the curvature of end portion310 of seal 300. Support structure 74 supports the dynamic portion 304of the seal 300. As shown in FIG. 2, end portion 310 abuts portion 75.Since portions of the seal 300 will be unsupported and under pressureduring the dynamic movement, support structure 74 and portion 75 preventthis pressure from distorting and damaging the seal 300. As described inthe forgoing description, seal 300 is interference-fitted within thespace or spatial region created by the difference in diameters D1 andD2. Seal 300 is dimensioned so that the forces created by theinterference fit are greater on the static portion 306 than the forceson the dynamic portion 304.

Referring to FIGS. 1B, 2 and 4, the sealing system 10 of the presentinvention further comprises first and second circumferentially extendinginner support rings 150 and 160, respectively, that are positioned viafloating placement within the space or spatial region created by thedifference in diameters D1 and D2 of inner tube 14. Thus, inner supportrings 150 and 160 are not fixed to interior surface 18 or shoulder 27.Inner support rings 150 and 160 are identically constructed. Innersupport rings 150 and 160 are separated by a circumferentiallyextending, center shock absorbing redundant seal 200 which is discussedin detail in the ensuing description. Inner support ring 150 has a firstsidewall 152 and opposite second sidewall 154. Sidewall Side 152 isformed with a curvature that is sized and shaped to receive the curledor arcuate portion 107 of the seal 100. Thus, inner support ring 150aligns itself on arcuate portion 107 of the seal 100. Inner support ring150 includes side 155 that confronts interior surface 18 of outer tube12. There is relative motion between side 155 and interior side 18.Second sidewall 154 is formed with a bulge portion 156 that extends forthe entire circumference of inner support ring 150. Bulge portion 156 isreceived by a complementary shaped contour in first shock absorbing sealsidewall 202 of center redundant shock absorbing seal 200. Inner supportring 150 also includes side 157 that confronts shoulder 27. There is norelative motion between side 157 and shoulder 27. Inner support ring 150allows the seal 100 to retain its shape and function as intended underextreme pressure conditions. Bulge portion 156 activates the centerredundant shock absorbing seal 200 when system pressure is applied. In apreferred embodiment, inner support ring 150 is fabricated from metal ormetal alloys.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, inner support ring 160 has first exteriorwall 162 and opposite second exterior wall 164. Wall 162 is formed witha curvature that is shaped and sized to receive the arcuate or curvedportion 307 of the seal 300. Thus, inner support ring 160 aligns itselfon arcuate portion 307 of the seal 300. Opposite wall 164 is formed witha bulge portion 166 that extends for the entire circumference of innersupport ring 160. Bulge portion 166 is received by a complementaryshaped contour in opposite second shock absorbing seal sidewall 204 ofcenter redundant shock absorbing seal 200. Inner support ring 160 hasside 165 that confronts interior surface 18 of outer tube 12. Innersupport ring 160 also has side 167 that confronts shoulder 27. There isno relative motion between side 167 and shoulder 27. Inner support ring160 allows the seal 300 to retain its shape and function as intendedunder extreme pressure conditions. Bulge portion 166 activates centerredundant shock absorbing seal 200 when system pressure is applied. In apreferred embodiment, inner support ring 160 is fabricated from metal ormetal alloys.

Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 4, circumferentially extending center shockabsorbing redundant seal 200 is positioned within the space or spatialregion formed by the difference between the diameters D1 and D2.Redundant seal 200 is located between inner support rings 150 and 160.Redundant seal 200 is configured to be interference fitted betweenshoulder 27 and interior surface 18. Bulge portion 156 of inner supportring 150 is positioned within the complementary shaped contour insidewall 202 of redundant seal 200. Bulge portion 166 of inner supportring 160 is positioned within the complementary shaped contour insidewall 204 of redundant seal 200. Seal 200 has a generally “X” shapedcross-section. Bulge portions 156 and 166 of inner support rings 150 and160, respectively, activate redundant seal 200 under system pressure.Specifically, when sealing system 10 undergoes pressure, bulge portions156 and 166 are pressed into sidewalls 202 and 204, respectively, whichcauses the seal 200 to bear against interior surface 18 and shoulder 27with even greater force so as to maintain a seal. Redundant seal 200functions as a fail-safe seal in the event of failure of seal 100 and/orseal 300. In a preferred embodiment, redundant seal 200 is fabricatedfrom glass-filled PEEK.

Referring to FIGS. 1B and 2, sealing system 10 further comprisescircumferentially extending retaining member 250 that is attached toinner tube 14. Outer support rings 30 and 32, seals 100 and 300, innersupport rings 150 and 160 and redundant seal 200 are firmly positionedbetween wall 28 and retaining member 250. Retaining member 250 preventsthese components from becoming dislodged from the space or spatialregion between shoulder 27 and interior surface 18. In one embodiment,retaining member 250 is a nut that is screwed onto threads (not shown)on inner tube 14.

In an alternate embodiment, redundant seal 200 is energized or activatedvia mechanical displacement that forces inner support rings 150 and 160into redundant seal 200.

Referring to FIGS. 5-7, there is shown a high pressure, bi-directionalsealing system 400 in accordance with an alternate embodiment of theinvention. Sealing system 400 comprises outer or female tube 402 andinner or male tube 404. Inner tube 404 is telescopically disposed withinthe interior region of outer tube 402. Outer tube 402 and inner tube 404are fabricated from metal or metal alloys, e.g. steel, stainless steel,iron, copper, brass, nickel, nickel alloys, titanium, etc. Outer tube402 and inner tube 404 can move axially or radially with respect to eachother. Outer tube 402 has interior surface 406. Inner tube 404 hasexterior surface 408. Outer tube 402 is configured to have a portionthat has a first inner diameter D3 and another portion that has a secondinner diameter D4 that is greater than the first inner diameter D3. Thisdifference in diameters D3 and D4 forms circumferentially extending wall410 and circumferentially extending shoulder 412 that is contiguous withwall 410. Shoulder 412 is a portion of interior surface 406. Thedifference in diameters D3 and D4 forms a circumferentially extendingspace or spatial region between exterior surface 408 and shoulder 412 inwhich the components of the sealing system are located. Sealing system400 uses the same components as sealing system 10 except that in thisembodiment, both annular, axial seals are oriented in differentpositions. Sealing system 400 further comprises a pair ofcircumferentially extending outer support rings 420 and 422 that arelocated via floating placement within the space or spatial regionbetween exterior surface 408 and shoulder 412. Outer support rings 420and 422 perform the same function and have the same structure as outersupport rings 30 and 32, respectively, which were described in theforegoing description. Outer support ring 420 abuts wall 410. Outersupport ring 420 has a circumferentially extending channel 428 andcircumferentially extending piston ring wipers 430 and 432 that aredisposed within the channel 428. Wipers 430 and 432 have the samestructure as wipers 44 and 45, respectively (see FIG. 2). Similarly,outer support ring 422 has a circumferentially extending channel 434 andcircumferentially extending piston ring wipers 436 and 438 that aredisposed within the channel 434. Wipers 430, 432, 436 and 438 perform ascraping function on exterior surface 408 so to remove exhaust gas,fluids or other residue and contaminants thereby preventingcontamination of the sealing system. Outer support ring 420 comprises aseal support section 440 which functions as a probe and supports thecurved inner surface 508 of the corresponding seal 500. Specifically,seal support section 440 includes rounded end 442 that contacts andsupports the curved inner surface 508. Thus, the function of sealsupport section 440 is the same as seal support section 33 (see FIG. 2).Seal support section 440 has a structure and shape that forms a firstspace or spatial region 444 that is between seal support structure 440and exterior surface 408, and a second space or spatial region 445 thatis between seal support structure 440 and shoulder 412.Circumferentially extending seal 500 is an annular axial seal and hasthe same structure and function as seal 100 (see FIG. 2) which wasdescribed in the foregoing description. The dynamic portion of seal 500is indicated by reference number 502 and the static portion of seal 500is indicated by reference number 504. The dynamic portion 502 of theseal 500 is positioned in the space or spatial region 444, and thestatic portion 504 of the seal 500 is positioned in the space or spatialregion 445. Seal 500 includes arcuate or curved portion 507 which hascurved inner surface 508. Seal 500 includes end portion 510 which has acurvature therein.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, outer support ring 420 includes acircumferentially extending support structure 450 that supports thedynamic portion 502 of the seal 500. Support structure 450 includesportion 454 which has a curvature that corresponds to the curvature ofend portion 510 of seal 500. End portion 510 abuts the portion 454 asshown in FIG. 6. The dynamic portion 502 slides or moves upon exteriorsurface 408 when outer tube 402 moves relative to inner tube 404. Thedynamic portion 502 contacts or bears against exterior surface 408 ifinner tube 404 moves relative to outer tube 402. There is no relativemotion between static portion 504 and shoulder 412. At all times, seal500 maintains a seal between shoulder 412 and exterior surface 408 as aresult of the constant contact between dynamic portion 502 and exteriorsurface 408 and the constant contact between static portion 504 andshoulder 412.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, circumferentially extending seal 600 includesarcuate or curved portion 607 which has curved inner surface 608. Seal600 includes end portion 610 which has a curvature therein. Outersupport ring 422 comprises a seal support section 460 which functions asa probe and supports the curved inner surface 608 of seal 600. Sealsupport section 460 has a rounded end 462 which contacts the curvedinner surface 608. Thus, the function of seal support section 460 is thesame as seal support section 62 (see FIG. 2) described in the foregoingdescription. Seal support section 460 has a shape and structure thatforms a space or spatial region 470 between seal support section 460 andexterior surface 408, and a space or spatial region 472 between sealsupport section 460 and shoulder 412. Seal 600 is an annular axial sealand has the same structure and function as seal 300 (see FIG. 2) whichwas described in the foregoing description. The dynamic portion of seal600 is indicated by reference number 602 and the static portion of seal600 is indicated by reference number 604. The dynamic portion 602 ispositioned in space or spatial region 470 and the static portion 604 ispositioned in the space or spatial region 472. Outer support ring 422includes a circumferentially extending support structure 474 thatsupports the dynamic portion 602 of the seal 600. Support structure 474includes portion 476 that has a curvature that corresponds to thecurvature of end portion 610 of seal 600. End portion 610 abuts theportion 476 as shown in FIG. 6. The dynamic portion 602 slides or movesupon exterior surface 408 when outer tube 402 moves relative to innertube 404. The dynamic portion 602 contacts or bears against exteriorsurface 408 if inner tube 404 moves relative to outer tube 402. There isno relative motion between static portion 604 and shoulder 412. At alltimes, seal 600 maintains a seal between exterior surface 408 andshoulder 412 as a result of the constant contact between dynamic portion602 and exterior surface 408 and the constant contact between staticportion 604 and shoulder 412.

Referring to FIGS. 5-7, sealing system 400 further comprises first andsecond circumferentially extending inner support rings 700 and 800,respectively, that are positioned via floating placement within thespace or spatial region between shoulder 412 and exterior surface 408.Inner support rings 700 and 800 are identically constructed. Innersupport rings 700 and 800 have the same structure and function as innersupport rings 150 and 160, respectively (see FIGS. 1B and 2). Innersupport rings 700 and 800 are separated by a circumferentiallyextending, center shock absorbing redundant seal 900 which is discussedin detail in the ensuing description. Inner support ring 700 has firstsidewall 702 and opposite second sidewall 704. First sidewall Side 702is formed with a curvature that is shaped and sized to receive thecurled or arcuate portion 507 of the seal 500. Inner support ring 700has side 706 that confronts shoulder 412. There is no relative motionbetween side 706 and shoulder 412. Inner support ring 700 also has side708 that confronts exterior surface 408 of inner tube 404. There isrelative motion between side 708 and exterior surface 408. Sidewall 704has a bulge portion 710 that is shaped and sized to fit into acomplementary contour in first shock absorbing seal sidewall 902 ofcenter redundant shock absorbing seal 900. Inner support ring 700 allowsthe seal 500 to retain its shape and function as intended under extremepressure conditions. Bulge portion 710 activates the center redundantshock absorbing seal 900 when system pressure is applied. In a preferredembodiment, inner support ring 700 is fabricated from metal or metalalloys.

As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, inner support ring 800 has first exteriorwall 802 and opposite second exterior wall 804. Wall 802 has a curvaturethat is sized and shaped to receive the curled or arcuate portion 607 ofthe seal 600. Inner support ring 800 has side 806 that confrontsshoulder 412. There is no relative motion between side 806 and shoulder412. Inner support ring 800 also has side 808 that confronts exteriorsurface 408 of inner tube 404. There is relative motion between side 808and exterior surface 408. Wall 804 has a bulge portion 810 that extendsfor the entire circumference of inner support ring 800. Bulge portion810 has a shape and size that fits the complementary shaped, oppositesecond shock absorbing seal sidewall 904 of center redundant shockabsorbing seal 900. Inner support ring 800 allows the seal 600 to retainits shape and function as intended under extreme pressure conditions.Bulge portion 810 activates the center redundant shock absorbing seal900 when system pressure is applied. In a preferred embodiment, innersupport ring 800 is fabricated from metal or metal alloys.

Referring to FIGS. 5-7, circumferentially extending center shockabsorbing redundant seal 900 is interference-fitted between innersupport rings 700 and 800 and interference fitted between exteriorsurface 408 and shoulder 412. Bulge portion 710 of inner support ring700 is positioned within the complementary shaped sidewall 902 ofredundant seal 900 and bulge portion 810 of inner support ring 800 ispositioned within the complementary shaped sidewall 904 of redundantseal 900. Seal 900 has a generally “X” shaped cross-section. Bulgeportions 710 and 810 of inner support rings 700 and 800, respectively,activate redundant seal 900 under system pressure. Redundant seal 900functions as a fail-safe seal in the event of failure of seal 500 and/orseal 600. In a preferred embodiment, redundant seal 900 is fabricatedfrom glass-filled PEEK.

Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, sealing system 400 further comprisescircumferentially extending retaining member 950. Outer support ring 422abuts retaining member 950. Outer support rings 420 and 422, firstannular seal 500 and second annular seal 600, inner support rings 700and 800 and redundant seal 900 are firmly positioned betweencircumferentially extending wall 410 and retaining member 950. Retainingmember 950 prevents these components from becoming dislodged from thespace or spatial region between exterior surface 408 and shoulder 412.In one embodiment, retaining member 950 is a nut that is screwed ontothreads (not shown) on outer tube 402.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, seals 500 and 600 are oriented in oppositedirections. Specifically, the opening of seal 500 is facing in adirection that is opposite to the direction in which the opening of seal600 is facing. This configuration allows sealing system 400 to handlepressure in both directions.

In an alternate embodiment, redundant seal 900 is energized or activatedvia mechanical displacement that forces inner support rings 700 and 800into redundant seal 900.

The sealing function provided by the sealing system of the presentinvention is maintained whether the inner male tube moves axially orradially (i.e. rotation) with respect to the outer female tube and viceversa. Thus, sealing systems 10 and 400 provide a high-integrity sealbetween the outer female tube and inner male tube which prevents leakageof flowing matter flowing through the outer female tube and inner maletube. The sealing system of the present invention allows formisalignments of dynamic and/or static displacements. The ability of theouter female tube and inner male tube to move axially and radially withrespect to each other allows for expansion and movement resulting fromtemperature changes, mechanical vibrations and shocks or sudden impacts,and also facilitates removal or installation of the sealing system. Thesealing system of the present invention can operate under pressuresbetween 10,000 and 20,000 PSI at 300° F. The sealing system of thepresent invention can be used in low or high humidity environments, athigh altitudes or below sea level, with caustic fluids as well asalkaline fluids, in low viscosity or high viscosity conditions, and withlow pressure fluids or high pressure fluids.

Referring to FIGS. 8-10, there is shown sealing system 1000 inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Sealingsystem 1000 comprises outer or female tube 1002 and inner or male tube1004 which is telescopically disposed within outer tube 1002.Circumferentially extending retaining member 1006 is removably attachedto inner tube 1004. In one embodiment, retaining member 1006 is screwedonto inner tube 1004 via threads (not shown) on inner tube 1004. Thepurpose of locking member 1006 will be described in the ensuingdescription. Outer tube 1002 has an interior surface 1005 (see FIG. 9).Inner tube 1004 has interior region 1008 and an exterior surface 1009.Inner tube 1004 has a portion that has a first outer diameter D5 and asecond portion that has a second outer diameter D6 that is greater thanthe first outer diameter D5. The difference in diameters D5 and D6 formscircumferentially extending shoulder 1010 and circumferentiallyextending vertical wall 1012 that is contiguous with circumferentiallyextending shoulder 1010. Shoulder 1010 is a portion of exterior surface1009 of inner tube 1004. The difference in the diameters D5 and D6 alsoforms a circumferentially extending space or spatial region that isbetween shoulder 1010 and interior surface 1005 of outer tube 1002. Aswill be evident from the ensuing description, components of the sealingsystem 1000 are located in the aforesaid space or spatial region betweenshoulder 1010 and interior surface 1005.

Referring to FIGS. 8-10, the sealing system 1000 comprises acircumferentially extending outer support ring 1020 which is positionedbetween interior surface 1005 and shoulder 1010 via floating placement.Outer support ring 1020 abuts locking member 1006. Outer support ring1020 comprises a seal support section 1022 which has a shape andstructure that forms a first space or spatial region 1024 between sealsupport section 1022 and interior surface 1005, and a second space orspatial region 1026 between seal support section 1022 and shoulder 1010.Sealing system 1000 further includes circumferentially extendingannular, axial seal 1100. Seal 1100 has the same structure and performsthe same function as seals 100 and 500 described in the forgoingdescription. Seal 1100 has an arcuate or curved portion 1101 which has acurved inner surface 1102. Seal support section 1022 functions as aprobe and supports the curved inner surface 1102 of seal 1100.Specifically, seal support section 1022 has rounded end 1024 whichcontacts and supports the curved inner surface 1102 of seal 1100. Outersupport ring 1020 further comprises a circumferentially extendingsupport structure 1028 which has a portion 1030 that has a curvaturethat corresponds to the curvature of end portion 1110 of seal 1100. Asshown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the dynamic portion of seal 1100 is indicatedby reference number 1104 and the static portion of the seal 1100 isindicated by reference number 1106. The dynamic portion 1104 of seal1100 is located within space 1024 and the static portion 1106 is locatedin space 1026. Support structure 1028 supports the dynamic portion 1104of seal 1100. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, end portion 1110 of seal1100 abuts portion 1030 of support structure 1028. Dynamic portion 1104bears against interior surface 1005 of outer tube 1002. Dynamic portion1104 slides against interior surface 1005 when inner tube 1004 moveswith respect to outer tube 1002. Dynamic portion 1104 also contactsinterior surface 1005 when outer tube 1002 moves with respect to innertube 1004. Static portion 1106 bears against the shoulder 1010. There isno relative motion between static portion 1106 and shoulder 1010. At alltimes, seal 1100 maintains a seal between interior surface 1005 andshoulder 1010 as a result of the constant contact between dynamicportion 1104 and interior surface 1005 and the constant contact betweenstatic portion 1106 and shoulder 1010.

Referring to FIGS. 9-10, sealing system 1000 further comprises acircumferentially extending inner support ring 1200 that is positionedwithin the space or spatial region between shoulder 1010 and interiorsurface 1005 via floating placement. Inner support ring 1200 ispositioned between seals 1100 and 1300. Inner support ring 1200 has side1202 and opposite side 1204. Side 1202 is formed with a curvature thatis sized and shaped to receive the curled or arcuate portion 1101 of theseal 1100. Side 1204 is formed with a curvature that is sized and shapedto receive the curled or arcuate portion 1301 of the seal 1300. Thus,inner support ring 1200 aligns itself on arcuate portions 1101 and 1301of seals 1100 and 1300, respectively. Inner support ring 1200 has side1206 that confronts shoulder 1010. There is no relative motion betweenside 1206 and shoulder 1010. Inner support ring 1200 also has side 1208that confronts interior surface 1005 of outer tube 1002. There may berelative motion between side 1208 and interior surface 1005. Innersupport ring 1200 allows the seals 1100 and 1300 to retain their shapeand function as intended under extreme pressure conditions. In apreferred embodiment, inner support ring 1200 is fabricated from metalor metal alloys.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, sealing system 1000 further comprises outersupport ring 1400 that is positioned between interior surface 1005 andshoulder 1010 via floating placement. Outer support ring 1400 abuts wall1012 (see FIG. 9). Outer support ring 1400 comprises a seal supportsection 1422 that has a shape and structure that forms a first space orspatial region 1424 between seal support section 1422 and interiorsurface 1005, and a second space or spatial region 1426 between sealsupport section 1422 and shoulder 1010. Seal 1300 is a circumferentiallyextending annular, axial seal and has the same structure and performsthe same function as seals 300 and 600 described in the forgoingdescription. Seals 1100 and 1300 are oriented in opposite directions.Specifically, the opening of seal 1100 is facing in a direction that isopposite to the direction in which the opening of seal 1300 is facing.This configuration allows sealing system 1000 to handle pressure in bothdirections. Seal 1300 has a curved or arcuate portion 1301 which has acurved inner surface 1302. Seal support section 1422 functions as aprobe and supports the curved inner surface 1302. Specifically, sealsupport section 1422 has a rounded end 1430 that contacts the curvedinner surface 1302 of seal 1300. The dynamic portion of the seal 1300 isindicated by reference number 1304. The static portion of the seal 1300is indicated by reference number 1306 The dynamic portion 1304 of seal1300 is located within space 1424 and the static portion 1306 is locatedin space 1426. Outer support ring 1400 includes circumferentiallyextending support structure 1428. Support structure 1428 has a portion1440 that has a curvature that corresponds to the end portion 1310 ofseal 1300. End portion 1310 abuts portion 1440 as shown in FIG. 9. Thus,support structure 1428 supports the dynamic portion 1304 of seal 1300.Dynamic portion 1304 bears against interior surface 1005 of outer tube1002. Dynamic portion 1304 slides against interior surface 1005 wheninner tube 1004 moves with respect to outer tube 1002. Dynamic portion1304 also contacts interior surface 1005 when outer tube 1002 moves withrespect to inner tube 1004. Static portion 1306 bears against theshoulder 1010. There is no relative motion between static portion 1306and shoulder 1010.

Referring to FIG. 9, at all times, seal 1100 maintains a seal betweeninterior surface 1005 and shoulder 1010 as a result of the constantcontact between dynamic portion 1104 and interior surface 1005 and theconstant contact between static portion 1106 and shoulder 1010. At alltimes, seal 1300 maintains a seal between interior surface 1005 andshoulder 1010 as a result of the constant contact between dynamicportion 1304 and interior surface 1005 and the constant contact betweenstatic portion 1306 and shoulder 1010.

As shown in FIG. 9, outer support ring 1020, seal 1100, inner supportring 1200, seal 1300 and outer support ring 1400 are positioned andretained between retaining member 1006 and wall 1012.

Referring to FIGS. 11-13, there is shown sealing system 1500 inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention. Sealingsystem 1500 comprises outer or female tube 1502 and inner or male tube1504 which is telescopically disposed within outer tube 1502.Circumferentially extending locking member 1506 is removably attached toouter tube 1502. In one embodiment, circumferentially extending lockingmember 1506 is screwed onto outer tube 1502 via threads (not shown).Outer tube 1502 has an interior surface 1505. Inner tube 1504 hasinterior region 1508 and an exterior surface 1509. Outer tube 1502 has afirst portion that has a first inner diameter D7 and a second portionthat has a second inner diameter D8 that is greater than the first innerdiameter D7. The difference in diameters D7 and D8 forms acircumferentially extending shoulder 1510 and circumferentiallyextending vertical wall 1512 that is contiguous with shoulder 1510.Shoulder 1510 is part of interior surface 1505. The difference indiameters D7 and D8 also forms a circumferentially extending space orspatial region that is between shoulder 1510 and exterior surface 1509of inner tube 1504. Components of the sealing system 1500 are located inthe aforesaid circumferentially extending space or spatial regionbetween shoulder 1510 and exterior surface 1509. Outer tube 1502 andinner tube 1504 are fabricated from metal or metal alloys, e.g. steel,stainless steel, iron, copper, brass, nickel, nickel alloys, titanium,etc.

Referring to FIGS. 11-13, the sealing system 1500 comprises acircumferentially extending outer support ring 1520 that is positionedbetween exterior surface 1509 and shoulder 1510 via floating placement.Outer support ring 1520 abuts retaining member 1506. Outer support ring1520 comprises a seal support section 1522 which has a shape andstructure that forms a first space or spatial region 1524 between sealsupport section 1522 and exterior surface 1509, and a second space orspatial region 1526 between seal support section 1522 and shoulder 1510.Sealing system 1500 further includes circumferentially extendingannular, axial seal 1600. Seal 1600 has the same structure and performsthe same function as seal 1100 described in the forgoing description.Seal 1600 has curved or arcuate portion 1601 which has an inner curvedsurface 1602. Seal 1600 further comprises an end portion 1603. Thedynamic portion of seal 1600 is indicated by reference number 1604 andthe static portion of the seal 1600 is indicated by reference number1606. Seal support section 1522 functions as a probe and supports thecurved inner surface 1602 of seal 1600. Specifically, seal supportsection 1522 has a rounded end 1523 which contacts curved inner surface1602. The dynamic portion 1604 of seal 1600 is located within space 1524and the static portion 1606 of seal 1600 is located in space 1526. Outersupport ring 1520 includes circumferentially extending support structure1528 which supports the dynamic portion 1604 of seal 1600. Specifically,support structure 1528 includes portion 1530 which has a curvature thatcorresponds to the curvature of end portion 1603 of seal 1600. Endportion 1603 abuts portion 1530 of support structure 1528 (see FIG. 12).Dynamic portion 1604 bears against exterior surface 1509 of inner tube1504. Dynamic portion 1604 slides against exterior surface 1509 wheninner tube 1504 moves with respect to outer tube 1502. Dynamic portion1604 also contacts exterior surface 1509 when outer tube 1502 moves withrespect to inner tube 1504. Static portion 1606 contacts or bearsagainst the shoulder 1510. There is no relative motion between staticportion 1606 and shoulder 1510. At all times, seal 1600 maintains a sealbetween exterior surface 1509 and shoulder 1510 as a result of theconstant contact between dynamic portion 1604 and exterior surface 1509and the constant contact between static portion 1606 and shoulder 1510.

Referring to FIGS. 11-13, sealing system 1500 further comprises acircumferentially extending inner support ring 1700 that is positionedvia floating placement within the space or spatial region betweenshoulder 1510 and exterior surface 1509. Inner support ring 1700 ispositioned between seals 1600 and 1800. Circumferentially extending seal1800 has the same structure and function as seals 600 and 1300 whichwere described in the foregoing description. Seal 1800 has a curved orarcuate portion 1801. Curved or arcuate portion 1801 has a curved innersurface 1802. Seal 1800 also includes an end portion 1803 which has acurvature therein. The dynamic portion of seal 1800 is indicated byreference number 1804. The static portion of seal 1800 is indicated byreference number 1806. Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, inner support ring1700 has side 1702 and opposite side 1704. Side 1702 is formed with acurvature that is sized and shaped to receive the curled or arcuateportion 1601 of the seal 1600. Side 1704 is formed with a curvature thatis sized and shaped to receive the curled or arcuate portion 1801 of theseal 1800. Inner support ring 1700 has side 1706 that confronts shoulder1510. There is no relative motion between side 1706 and shoulder 1510.Inner support ring 1700 also has side 1708 that confronts exteriorsurface 1509 of inner tube 1504. The width of side 1708 is relativelygreater than the width of side 1706. There may be relative motionbetween side 1708 and exterior surface 1509. Inner support ring 1700allows the seals 1600 and 1800 to retain their shape and function asintended under extreme pressure conditions. In a preferred embodiment,inner support ring 1700 is fabricated from metal or metal alloys.

Sealing system 1500 further comprises circumferentially extending outersupport ring 1900 that is positioned between exterior surface 1509 andshoulder 1510 via floating placement. Outer support ring 1900 abuts wall1512. Outer support ring 1900 comprises a seal support section 1922which has a shape and structure that forms a first space or spatialregion 1924 between seal support section 1922 and exterior surface 1509,and a second space or spatial region 1426 between seal support section1922 and shoulder 1510. Seal support section 1922 functions as a probeand supports the curved inner surface 1802 of seal 1800. Specifically,seal support section 1922 includes rounded end 1930 which contacts thecurved inner surface 1802 of seal 1800. The dynamic portion 1804 of seal1800 is located within space 1924 and the static portion 1806 is locatedin space 1426. Outer support ring 1900 includes circumferentiallyextending support structure 1940 which supports the dynamic portion 1804of seal 1800. Specifically, support structure 1940 includes a portion1942 that has a curvature that corresponds to the curvature in endportion 1803 of seal 1800. End portion 1803 abuts portion 1942. Dynamicportion 1804 bears against exterior surface 1509 of inner tube 1504.Dynamic portion 1804 slides against exterior surface 1509 when innertube 1504 moves with respect to outer tube 1502. Dynamic portion 1804also contacts exterior surface 1509 when outer tube 1502 moves withrespect to inner tube 1504. Static portion 1806 bears against theshoulder 1510. There is no relative motion between static portion 1806and shoulder 1510. At all times, seal 1800 maintains a seal betweenexterior surface 1509 and shoulder 1510 as a result of the constantcontact between dynamic portion 1804 and exterior surface 1509 and theconstant contact between static portion 1806 and shoulder 1510.

Referring to FIG. 12, seals 1600 and 1800 are oriented in oppositedirections. Specifically, the opening of seal 1600 is facing in adirection that is opposite to the direction in which the opening of seal1800 is facing. This configuration allows sealing system 1500 to handlepressure in both directions.

As shown in FIG. 12, outer support ring 1520, seal 1600, inner supportring 1700, seal 1800 and outer support ring 1900 are positioned andretained between retaining member 1506 and wall 1512.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, at all times, seal 1600 maintains a sealbetween exterior surface 1509 and shoulder 1510 as a result of theconstant contact between dynamic portion 1604 and exterior surface 1509and the constant contact between static portion 1606 and shoulder 1510.At all times, seal 1800 maintains a seal between exterior surface 1509and shoulder 1510 as a result of the constant contact between dynamicportion 1804 and exterior surface 1509 and the constant contact betweenstatic portion 1806 and shoulder 1510.

An important feature of all of the embodiments of the sealing system ofthe present invention is that the movable tube of the sealing system canbe completely disengaged from the sealing system under operatingconditions. For example, in sealing system 1500, inner tube 1504 can becompletely disengaged (i.e. removed) from sealing system 1500 underpressure and reengaged (i.e. reinstalled) at a later point in time andstill maintain functionality.

In an alternate embodiment, the outer female tubes (e.g. outer tube 12)and the inner tube (e.g. inner tube 14) are configured to have theflange configurations described in United States Patent ApplicationPublication No. US2008/0258407, entitled “Volumetric Sealing System”,published Oct. 23, 2008, the disclosure of which published patentapplication is hereby incorporated by reference.

In alternate embodiments, seals 100, 300, 500, 600, 1100, 1300, 1600 and1800 may be fabricated from non-metal materials such as ceramic,composite materials, plastic, polymers, Teflon, Teflon coated metals,etc.

The principles, preferred embodiments and modes of operation of thepresent invention have been described in the foregoing specification.This invention should not be construed as limited to the particularforms disclosed, as these are to be regarded as illustrative rather thanrestrictive. Variations and changes may be made by those skilled in theart without departing from the spirit of the invention. Accordingly, theforegoing detailed description should be considered as exemplary innature and not as limiting the scope and spirit of the invention as setforth in the attached claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A sealing apparatus, comprising: an outer tube(12) having an interior region and an interior surface (18) surroundingthe interior region; an inner tube (14) telescopically disposed withinthe interior region of the outer tube (12) such that the inner tube (14)and the outer tube (12) can move axially with respect to each other androtate with respect to each other, the inner tube (14) having a firstportion having a first outer diameter (D1) and a second portion having asecond outer diameter (D2) that is less than the first outer diameter(D1), wherein the difference in the diameters (D1) and (D2) forms acircumferentially extending shoulder (27), a circumferentially extendingwall (28) that is contiguous with the shoulder (27) and acircumferentially extending space between the shoulder (27) and theinterior surface (18) of the outer tube (12), the wall (28) forming aboundary between the first portion of the inner tube (14) having thefirst outer diameter (D1) and the second portion of the inner tube (14)having the second outer diameter (D2), the inner tube (14) having anexterior surface (26) which comprises the shoulder (27); a first outersupport ring (30) positioned on the shoulder (27) and abutting the wall(28), the first outer support ring (30) having a seal support section(33) that is shaped so as to form a first space (34) between the sealsupport section (33) and the interior surface (18) of the outer tube(12) and a second space (35) between the seal support section (33) andthe shoulder (27); a first annular seal (100) positioned between theinterior surface (18) and the shoulder (27), the first annular seal(100) having a first portion (132) upon which dynamic forces are exertedand which contacts the interior surface (18) of the outer tube (12) anda second portion (134) upon which no dynamic forces are exerted, thesecond portion (134) bearing against the shoulder (27), wherein thefirst portion (132) of the first annular seal (100) is positioned in thefirst space (34) between the seal support section (33) and the interiorsurface (18) of the outer tube (12) and the second portion (134) of thefirst annular seal (100) is positioned in the second space (35) betweenthe seal support section (33) and the shoulder (27), the first annularseal (100) comprising an arcuate portion (107) having a curved innersurface (107A), wherein the seal support section (33) abuts the curvedinner surface (107A); a first circumferentially extending inner supportring (150) positioned between the shoulder (27) and the interior surface(18), the inner support ring (150) having a first sidewall (152) and anopposite second sidewall (154), wherein the first sidewall (152) has acurvature that extends for the entire circumference of the inner supportring (150) and is sized and shaped for receiving the arcuate portion(107) of the seal (100); a center shock absorbing seal (200) positionedbetween the interior surface (18) and the shoulder (27) and comprising afirst shock absorbing seal sidewall (202) abutting the opposite secondsidewall (154) of the first circumferentially extending inner supportring (150) and an opposite second shock absorbing seal sidewall (204); asecond circumferentially extending inner support ring (160) positionedbetween the shoulder (27) and the interior surface (18), the innersupport ring (160) having a first exterior wall (162) and an oppositesecond exterior wall (164), wherein the first exterior wall (162) has acurvature that extends for the entire circumference of the secondcircumferentially extending inner support ring (160) and the oppositesecond exterior wall (164) abuts the opposite second shock absorbingseal sidewall (204); a second annular seal (300) positioned between theinterior surface (18) of the outer tube (12) and the shoulder (27), thesecond annular seal (300) having a first portion (304) upon whichdynamic forces are exerted and which contacts the interior surface (18)of the outer tube (12) and a second portion (306) upon which no dynamicforces are exerted, the second portion (306) bearing against theshoulder (27), the second annular seal (300) further comprising anarcuate portion (307) that is positioned within the curvature of thefirst exterior wall (162) of the second circumferentially extendinginner support ring (160), wherein the arcuate portion (307) comprises aninner curved surface (308); a second outer support ring (32) positionedon the shoulder (27), the second outer support ring (32) comprising aseal support section (62) that abuts the curved inner surface (308) ofthe second annular seal (300), wherein the seal support section (62) hasa structure which forms a first space (140) between the seal supportsection (62) and the interior surface (18) of the outer tube (12) and asecond space (142) between the seal support section (62) and theshoulder (27), wherein the first portion (304) of the second annularseal (300) is positioned in the first space (140) and the second portion(306) of the second annular seal (300) is positioned in the second space(142) between the seal support section (62) and the shoulder (27); and aretaining member (250) mounted to the inner tube (14) such that thefirst outer support ring (30), the first annular seal (100), the firstcircumferentially extending inner support ring (150), the center shockabsorbing seal (200), the second circumferentially extending innersupport ring (160), the second annular seal (300) and the second outersupport ring (32) are positioned between the circumferentially extendingwall (28) and the retaining member (250), the retaining member (250)abutting the second outer support ring (32).
 2. The sealing apparatusaccording to claim 1 wherein the first shock absorbing seal sidewall(202) has a particular contour and wherein the opposite second sidewall(154) of the first circumferentially extending inner support ring (150)comprises a bulge portion (156) that extends for the entirecircumference of the first circumferentially extending inner supportring (150), wherein the bulge portion (156) abuts the first shockabsorbing seal sidewall (202) such that the particular contour of thefirst shock absorbing seal sidewall (202) receives the bulge portion(156).
 3. The sealing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein theopposite second shock absorbing seal sidewall (204) has a particularcontour and wherein the opposite second exterior wall (164) comprises abulge portion (166) that extends for the entire circumference of thesecond circumferentially extending inner support ring (160), wherein thebulge portion (166) abuts the opposite second shock absorbing sealsidewall (204) such that the particular contour of the opposite secondshock absorbing seal sidewall (204) receives the bulge portion (166). 4.The sealing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the first outersupport ring (30) includes a channel (42) and a plurality of wiper seals(44, 45) disposed within the channel (42), wherein the channel (42) ispositioned such that the wiper seals (44, 45) scrape the interiorsurface (18) of the outer tube (12) when there is relative movementbetween the outer tube (12) and the inner tube (14).
 5. The sealingapparatus according to claim 1 wherein the second outer support ring(32) includes a channel (82) and a plurality of wiper seals (84, 85)disposed within the channel (82), wherein the channel (82) is positionedsuch that the wiper seals (84, 85) scrape the interior surface (18) ofthe outer tube (12) when there is relative movement between the outertube (12) and the inner tube (14).
 6. The sealing apparatus according toclaim 1 wherein the seal support section (33) has a rounded end (41)which abuts the curved inner surface (107A) of the first annular seal(100), and wherein the seal support section (62) has a rounded end (64)which abuts the inner curved surface (308) of the second annular seal(300).
 7. A sealing apparatus, comprising: an outer tube (402) having aninterior region and an interior surface (406) surrounding the interiorregion; an inner tube (404) telescopically disposed within the interiorregion of the outer tube (402) such that the inner tube (404) and theouter tube (402) can move axially with respect to each other and rotatewith respect to each other, the inner tube (404) having an exteriorsurface (408); said outer tube (402) having a first portion having afirst inner diameter (D3) and a second portion having a second innerdiameter (D4) that is greater than the first inner diameter (D3),wherein the difference between the inner diameters (D3) and (D4) forms acircumferentially extending wall (410), a circumferentially extendingshoulder (412) that is contiguous with the wall (410) and acircumferentially extending space between the shoulder (412) and theexterior surface (408) of the inner tube (404), wherein the shoulder(412) is a portion of the interior surface (406) of the outer tube (402)and the wall (410) forms a boundary between the first portion of theouter tube (402) having the first inner diameter (D3) and the secondportion of the outer tube (402) having the second inner diameter (D4); afirst outer support ring (420) positioned between the exterior surface(408) of the inner tube (404) and the shoulder (412) and abutting thewall (410), the first outer support ring (420) having a seal supportsection (440) that is shaped so as to form a first space (444) betweenthe seal support section (440) and the exterior surface (408) of theinner tube (404) and a second space (445) between the seal supportsection (440) and the shoulder (412); a first annular seal (500)positioned between the exterior surface (408) of the inner tube (404)and the shoulder (412), the first annular seal (500) having a firstportion (502) upon which dynamic forces are exerted and which contactsthe exterior surface (408) and a second portion (504) upon which nodynamic forces are exerted, the second portion (504) bearing against theshoulder (412), wherein the first portion (502) is positioned in thefirst space (444) between the seal support section (440) and theexterior surface (408) and the second portion (504) is positioned in thesecond space (445) between the seal support section (440) and theshoulder (412), the first annular seal (500) comprising an arcuateportion (507) having a curved inner surface (508), wherein the sealsupport section (440) abuts the curved inner surface (508); a firstcircumferentially extending inner support ring (700) positioned betweenthe shoulder (412) and the exterior surface (408) and having a firstsidewall (702) and an opposite second sidewall (704), wherein the firstsidewall (702) has a curvature that extends for the entire circumferenceof the inner support ring (700) and is sized and shaped for receivingthe arcuate portion (507) of the seal (500); a center shock absorbingseal (900) positioned between the exterior surface (408) and theshoulder (412) and comprising a first shock absorbing seal sidewall(902) that abuts the opposite second sidewall (704) of the firstcircumferentially extending inner support ring (700) and an oppositesecond shock absorbing seal sidewall (904); a second circumferentiallyextending inner support ring (800) positioned between the exteriorsurface (408) and the shoulder (412), the second circumferentiallyextending inner support ring (800) having a first exterior wall (802)and an opposite second exterior wall (804), wherein the first exteriorwall (802) has a curvature that extends for the entire circumference ofthe second circumferentially extending inner support ring (800) and theopposite second exterior wall (804) abuts the shock absorbing sealsidewall (904); a second annular seal (600) positioned between theexterior surface (408) of the inner tube (404) and the shoulder (412),the second annular seal (600) having a first portion (602) upon whichdynamic forces are exerted and which contacts the exterior surface (408)and a second portion (604) upon which no dynamic forces are exerted, thesecond portion (604) bearing against the shoulder (412), the secondannular seal (600) further comprising an arcuate portion (607) that ispositioned within the curvature of the sidewall (802) of the innersupport ring (800), wherein the arcuate portion (607) comprises a curvedinner surface (608); a second outer support ring (422) positionedbetween the exterior surface (408) and the shoulder (412), the secondouter support ring (422) comprising a seal support section (460) thatabuts the curved inner surface (608) of the second annular seal (600),wherein the seal support section (460) has a structure that forms aspace (470) between the seal support section (460) and the exteriorsurface (408) and a second space (472) between the seal support section(460) and the shoulder (412), wherein the first portion (602) of thesecond annular seal (600) is positioned in the first space (470) and thesecond portion (604) of the second annular seal (600) is positioned inthe second space (472); and a retaining member (950) attached to theouter tube (402) such that the first outer support ring (420), the firstannular seal (500), the first circumferentially extending inner supportring (700), the center shock absorbing seal (900), the secondcircumferentially extending inner support ring (800), the second annularseal (600) and the second outer support ring (422) are positionedbetween the circumferentially extending wall (410) and the retainingmember (950), the retaining member (950) abutting the second outersupport ring (422).